My Stamping Journey

Believe it or not... I learned how to metal stamp by watching YouTube videos.

I can't tell you what made me want to start, but it was about 5 years ago I bought my first stamping set. After that first tap with the hammer - I impressed (LOL).

What I loved most about hammered art is how little you need to get started.

• Hammer - check
• Stamp set - check
• Stamp pad - check
• Metal blanks - check
• Sharpie marker - check and done!

It also helps to have a good solid surface to stamp on. My table is made from butcher block that I found second hand.

This is where I stamp all my jewelry.

From rings, to bracelets, to necklaces. It's all done right here.

Stamping can be loud

Once I take that first hit with the hammer all the animals go running out of my office.

To be honest, after a while my own ears start ringing. This is easily fixed with ear buds and some good tunes.

To get a good good impression in your metal is to know your metal.

Know your Metal

Copper is the hardest to stamp on. Not hard to make good impressions in, but the metal its self is hard. That just means you need to use more force with the hammer.

Brass is second after copper.

Then aluminum.

Then pewter.

Each metal takes a different hammered force. That is something you learn with experience.

Where did you get your stamps?

I bought my first letter stamping set from Michaels craft store, but you can order stamps online as well. Letter stamps are the most expensive. The teal set above is the set I started with and it still leaves great impressions. Over time stamps can wear out.

Have you ever taught stamping classes?

Yes!

I remember the very first class I taught. I was scared to death!

I put tickets up on my website wondering if anyone would buy one - sold every single one!

Then I had to go shopping and get everyone their own stamping blocks, hammers and enough blanks for people to make their own jewelry pieces.

It was the only class I held for years to come. I don't know why I didn't keep doing them. It really was a huge success.

Fast forward to present day. I host about one to two stamping classes a month. If you are interested, check my Events & Classes page.

A photo from a collaboration event last year (2022). 

Is stamping fun?

Yes! But I don't like doing the same design over and over and over again.

So often times I only do one design once or twice and then I switch it up. I often ask for ideas on quotes and saying on my Instagram! Love seeing what people come up with!

How long does it take you to stamp a bracelet?

It depends on the design but anywhere between 3 to 6 minutes. Then I darken the impression with ink to bring out a clear crisp image, then wipe it clean and polish it. The fun part is bending it into bracelet form.

All in all

I had no idea where my stamping journey would take me! It's been fun to grow and help other women make and create different designs.

There is still so much I want to try and many other items I want to create!

All of which you can be apart of if you follow me on Instagram @BirklandBoutique

XOXO - Lesly